Hi folks, I am Ian and I am researching my Grandfather, Owen James Alton, an RSM in the Royal Warwickshire 1st Bn. He served in WWII, all I know is at some point he was posted to Deolali. Would love to know more about him as he passed away before I was born. With Dad being gone now too I have noone to ask about my Grandfathers wartime days. Cheers Ian
Hello Ian and welcome to the forum. Have you tried a Google search for Army Records? You should be able to obtain the service records from the department that holds them. I believe the Imperial War Museum & The National Archives have downloadable files that help with this sort of thing... Detecting your browser settings Family History at the Imperial War Museum or maybe try.. Military Genealogy | Army Ancestors UK | Family History and I believe there are many links that may be able to help you here... Cyndi's List - U.K. - Military
Welcome, Ian. Why not give us any information you already have? I'm betting at least one of the Rogues can at least give you specific direction to find more. Keep us posted on what you find. There are plenty here willing to help. Good luck.
Hi Folks and many thanks for the warm welcome. Owen James Alton joined the Royal Warwickshire 1st Bn on 20th October 1939 as a Heavy Transport Driver. His army number was 5114647 and he served under Lt Col A.C. Hordern. I know that at some point 'Jim' as he was known to his friends, was posted out to Deolali as I have photo's of him inscribed on the reverse side. Jim's testimonial reads: Owen James Alton. Transport Heavy Driver D & VM Tests passed. Military conduct exemplary, medical Cat A1. RSM Alton has been my RSM for the past six and a half months and I could not wish for a better. He has a strong, quiet and forceful personality and excellent powers of leadership and command. His handing of men, especially his fellow W.O's / Sgts, leaves nothing to be desired, a good reasonable disciplinarian, he is entirely loyal, reliable, very hard working, willing smart and a good organiser. Prior to becoming RSM he was a very good CSM for over a year, and in his time has been employed as a vehicle mechanic, carrier and MT sgt, mortar and anti tank sgt. A man of considerable ability whom I strongly recommend for a position of responsibility. AC Hordern Lt Col I read this with great pride but really want to know so much more about the Grandfather I never knew. Jim went on to serve in the home guard in Aberfoyle, Londonderry. I have a letter here which reads: To whom it may concern, I have known Mr O J Alton since the formation of the home guard in 1952. In his army days he was a regimental Sgt Major in the Royal Warwickshire Rgt. He has been our home guard Clerk and I am very distressed that, owing to some Trade Union agreement and the disbandment of the AA Command, he is being taken from the Londonderry home guard batallion. He is a good administrator, a good organiser and his help has been invaluable, indeed he has been our mainstay. He is married to a Derry girl. Anybody seeking his services, should they obtain them, would be getting a good man. I shall be very pleased to answer any further queries about him. I thank him for his services and wish him well. Signed Basil McFarland Col. Sir Basil McFarland, Bt, C.B.E, E.R.D, H.M.L, A.D.C. This is all I know of what was obviously a very dedicated man. Please please help me find out more! I will be forever in your debt. Many Thanks I Alton
Hello Ian, good to have you with us and thank you for posting this information about yor granddad. I hope someone wil be able to help.
Hi guys and thanks again for the warm welcome. I have just purchased a book entitled 'History of The Royal Warwickshire Regiment 1919-1945' seems now I can see exactly where my Grandfather served. His commanding officer Lt Col A.C. Hordern is mentioned several times as is the 1st Batallion. Time to stick the kettle on now and enjoy a nice quiet read for an hour or two!
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